Chapter 9, Carpooling

Tong Xi blinked her eyes and said, "Has my aunt ever heard of the Emperor needing to consult the harem about his plans? The Emperor is not a tyrant devoid of virtue; on the contrary, he is a great ruler. In his five years on the throne, he has rewarded agriculture, managed water resources, exempted harsh taxes, promoted education, expanded territories, and pacified the surrounding tribes. Which of these was not decided by his own authority? How could he allow others to interfere?"

"The imperial concubine has such a clever mind," Du Gu Yuanfeng praised, though her eyes were filled with disdain. Only Zhao Fei increasingly felt that Linghu Tongxi was intelligent and resourceful. She had not expected Tongxi to understand how to make a balloon using this method; indeed, the wisdom of the ancients should not be underestimated.

"This shall not be repeated." The Heavenly Sovereign nodded.

Tong Xi gently patted the silk of her sleeve, and indeed, the person beside her had quite a discerning eye, able to perceive the differences in Zhao Fei. Whenever the Emperor and Zhao Fei were present at the same time, there had always been subtle exchanges between them in the past, yet today, there was evidently a distinct difference.

This matter was not conducted secretly by the Emperor, and it is likely that both the Changxin Palace and the Zhaoyang Palace will be aware of it

The garments from both shores emit a fragrant aroma, silver hairpins shine like frost blades in the sunlight. The drum sounds thrice, and the red flags unfurl; two dragons leap forth from the floating waters. The oar shadows cut through the waves like a thousand swords, the drum beats split the waves like a thousand thunders. The drumbeats grow urgent as the finish line approaches, the two dragons eye the mark as if in an instant. The people on the slope call out, thunderstruck, as colorful banners hang from the poles, creating a halo of rainbows. The front boat has surged ahead and secured the mark, while the rear boat, losing momentum, flails in vain.

She was not accustomed to lying in Changxin Palace, so after the imperial physician's consultation, she left and only learned the outcome of that scene when Shubok and the others returned

Tong Xi personally presented the ball to Du Gu Yuan Feng, saying, "I have not played cuju for a long time. Today, I am also fortunate to have the Empress Dowager's blessing. Empress Dowager, please feel this ball and see if it is any different"

Tong Xi received a consultation from the imperial physician in the side hall of Changxin Palace. After the Tianzheng Emperor set her down, he left, which truly relieved her. Dugu Yuanfeng's kick was quite severe; her eye socket had already turned purple, making her look rather comical. She estimated that she would not be able to see anyone for at least half a month

"Do the Empress Dowager and Consort Zhao know?" Tongxi asked.

The numerous concubines complied with the promise, but their enthusiasm was considerably dampened. Mu Zhaowen stood quietly with a furrowed brow at the side, attending to the situation, and the festive atmosphere had significantly diminished.

The moment the silk was tied, it wilted, and "I did not dare to look at His Majesty."

Oh, is Zhao Wen going to compose poetry in accordance with the progress of the competition? The expression of Emperor Tianzheng relaxed a bit at this, as Tong Xi has always been low-key and does not seek favor.

When Emperor Tianzheng took notice of the Crown Prince's consort, Tongxi secretly cast a glance at him and felt a strong fluctuation in his eyes, which suddenly clarified her heart.

Tong Xi's team is currently leading by three goals. She has always excelled in this and is not afraid of Dong Guo Yuan Feng. Moreover, she cannot show weakness in front of others, as this would cause those who initially wanted to align with her to turn to Dong Guo Yuan Feng instead. Whatever the names of the renowned techniques such as "Swallow Returns to Nest," "Slanting Flower Insertion," "Wind Sways Lotus," "Peach Picking Under Leaves," "Jade Buddha Topping Pearl," "Double Shoulders Carrying the Moon," and "Curved Meteor," she can perform them all, drawing continuous applause from the audience.

Upon hearing the words of the Heavenly Sovereign, Tong Xi felt a surge of anxiety, resenting herself for not being able to approach the matter with the same ease and grace as Mu Zhao Wen. "I believe that since the Princess of Jin has requested to participate in the competition, she is determined to succeed. However, the physical strength of women ultimately cannot match that of men; achieving a place among the top three would be commendable."

Your Highness, this servant truly does not understand you. Why did you help that Consort Zhao humiliate the Empress today? At this moment, the Emperor is doing such things, and you do not intervene

"Today is a rare occasion of such enthusiasm, I shall also join you in your merriment." The ladies cheered.

Tongxi was a skilled player of cuju at home, and she greatly enjoyed this game. "Does Your Majesty permit us to indulge in our play at Changxin Palace?" Tongxi asked with a smile.

Tongxi lay on the bed in the Tonghui Palace, still thinking about what had just happened, the appearance of the Crown Princess of Jin, and whether there would be a good show to watch. There were not many entertainments in the harem, and Tongxi greatly enjoyed watching such dramas

When the ball came, Dugu Yuanfeng smiled gently and jokingly said, "Your Highness, using the ball you are accustomed to in your daily life is hardly a fair match."

The Heavenly Sovereign specially rewarded the fleet that ranked among the top three, and summoned the Princess of Jin to come forward to meet him, primarily because everyone was eager to see the woman who had gained favor today

After Su Minwen kowtowed to express her gratitude, she had the opportunity to hurriedly glance at the crowd. The handsome appearance of the Heavenly Sovereign was beyond her expectations yet within her imagination. She blushed slightly, and her gaze was drawn to a figure in a light pink hue.

Dugu Yuanfeng, revered as the Empress Dowager, is ultimately just a woman in her twenties, experiencing solitude. In such a joyful atmosphere, the vitality of youth cannot be suppressed. As for Tongxi, as long as Emperor Tianzheng is not present, she feels quite at ease.

"Summon the imperial physician." His voice, even at this moment, was chillingly cold.

Mu Zhaowen noticed that Emperor Tianzheng had lost some interest, so she spoke up: "Your Majesty, this competition is truly lively; I have recalled a few lines of poetry."

Mu Zhaowen shook her head, saying, "I am not skilled in this; I shall merely cheer for the Empress Dowager and Her Highness from the sidelines."

"What about Consort Zhao?" In fact, Tongxi is most concerned about Consort Zhao. From this matter, she is very eager to know Consort Zhao's attitude. Based on her observations over the past two months, Mu Zhao Wen has been almost indifferent to worldly affairs, a stance that Tongxi does not appreciate.

The Heavenly Sovereign called out "Be at ease," and said nothing further. He took his seat on the throne, allowing them to continue. However, Tongxi could no longer return to her previous level, while Dugu Yuanfeng, as if having consumed a five-stone pill, was full of vitality, quickly closing the gap.

What about the Emperor

In the Jingxuan Dynasty, nobles of both genders enjoyed playing cuju, but the men's cuju involved direct competition between two teams, while the women's version was more aesthetically pleasing. The goals were set in the middle of the two teams, with a two-foot wide "flirtatious eye" opening in the goal. The winner was determined by the team that could pass the ball through the flirtatious eye the most times without letting it touch the ground

How? Tong Xi, feeling pain in her face, particularly needed to distract herself. When Shu Bo entered, she could not wait to speak up.

Go to the Empress Dowager's Changxin Palace. After her nap, Tongxi finished her grooming and was ready to get up to see the reactions of Dugu Yuanfeng and Mu Zhaowen

Today, based on the number of people, each of the two teams has formed a group of five members

A life without rivals is exceedingly lonely

Mu Zhaowen arrived before Tongxi. She has always been approachable in the palace, and the concubines all like her. Tongxi does not envy her; she does not care whether the concubines like her or not, as long as they are obedient.

When the first fleet crossed the buoy, applause and drums resounded, and the fleet of the Princess of Jin was the third to pass the buoy.

The maid presented the ball to the Empress Dowager for inspection, and then came to request Tong Xi to verify the ball, as both of them led a team and needed to show it to the captains of both sides before the game began

A water-red palace gown made of flowing silk adorned her, resembling a shimmering light reflected on the lake by the evening glow. Atop her flying phoenix hairstyle, a golden peony flower was pinned, its petals as thin as paper, surrounded by twelve phoenix hairpins inserted at an angle. A red gemstone was placed at the center of her brow, radiating brilliance, exuding an unparalleled nobility.

"Sister Tongxi!" A younger cousin of Tongxi called out loudly as she received the ball that came from the Windy Eye. With one kick, she passed the ball to Tongxi, but unfortunately, her aim was off. The ball was on a parabolic trajectory, about to fall behind Tongxi. If the ball hit the ground, Tongxi's team would incur a penalty. It was as if she had eyes in the back of her head; her body twisted like a shuttle, swiftly turning around. She hooked her right leg back, leaned her waist backward, and her head nearly touched the ground. With the force from her foot, the ball grazed over her head and accurately flew into the Windy Eye. If the ball had hit the ground, Tongxi's team would have incurred a penalty. It was as if she had eyes in the back of her head; her body twisted like a shuttle, swiftly turning around. She hooked her right leg back, leaned her waist backward, and her head nearly touched the ground. With the force from her foot, the ball grazed over her head and accurately flew into the Windy Eye. Taking advantage of this momentum, her right leg continued to sweep, and with the hem of her skirt, she swiftly performed a somersault in the air, the azure-colored skirt dancing like a bright moon, while she stood firmly on the ground.

The voice of Emperor Tianzheng interjected, "It is I who consented, Empress Dowager. On that day, when Zhao Wen mentioned it, I was momentarily inspired to participate as well, merely to add some festive cheer. I am not one to disregard sentiments. Moreover, Zhao Wen mentioned that the Empress Dowager's longevity celebration is approaching, and this time, the concubines have also expressed their intention to donate a gilded Bodhisattva statue to Baiyun Temple as a blessing for the Empress Dowager. Furthermore, the law does not hold the masses accountable."

Tong Xi held the ball and said, "This ball is too heavy, not suitable for our daughters to play with. Shu Bo, go fetch my ball." Shu Bo complied and left.

However, Dugu Yuanfeng's eyes were looking behind her. "Is the Princess of Jin not in your palace?"

Mu Zhaowen has always been cautious; her actions this time must be based on some support. I am merely observing the story behind the scenes, and I did not expect her to be so deep in strategy. Your Majesty, please do not be too anxious.

The poetic quality of this piece is not particularly high, but it excels in its timeliness, and the smile of Emperor Tianzheng has become much more amiable towards Mu Zhaowen

At a glance, it seems as if the imperial consort is not a person of this world, but rather a striking pair of golden boy and jade girl

Later, the people around the Princess of Jin began to make a fuss, claiming that she was exceptionally skilled at playing cuju. The Emperor spoke, and only then was the Princess of Jin released from her predicament, while the Empress Dowager's expression was extremely displeased

Her eyes were burning with pain, yet her heart felt at ease. No longer having to play cuju in front of the Heavenly Sovereign, she thought that even if she were hit by the ball, it would still be worth it

The expression on the face of the Imperial Concubine cannot be discerned as either happy or unhappy; however, she has not glanced at the Emperor all afternoon, which leads me to believe that she is indeed concerned about it

She cannot do without the Empress Dowager, as she is, after all, a pawn to prevent Mu Zhaowen from rising to power, but she also cannot allow the Empress Dowager to use her as a tool.

She curled up stiffly in the embrace of the Heavenly Sovereign, her hands dared not encircle his neck, but instead were hidden in her sleeves, clenched into fists, worried that she might fall to the ground

Tong Xi smiled, and this Princess of Jin also seemed to be a straightforward person. "What about the Emperor's expression?"

Since Tongxi is aware that Consort Zhao cares about Emperor Tianzheng, this makes things easier. Whether she truly does not want to fight, or is merely pretending not to want to, she will be forced into a confrontation.

During the gathering, Dugu Yuanfeng could no longer hold back and asked, "When did the noble consort become so hesitant? Are you not afraid that Mu Zhaowen, this rising tide, will catch up to the previous wave?" Dugu Yuanfeng did not need to beat around the bush with Tongxi, as they both understood each other very well.

Tongxi finally confirmed her inference that Emperor Tianzheng had a strong inclination for illicit romances, ranging from the Empress Dowager to his own widowed sister, and then to the Princess of Jin. Although Tongxi could not agree with this, she could only turn a blind eye to it.

When the Emperor spoke, Dugu Yuanfeng naturally suppressed her anger, "Your Majesty, this has set a bad precedent"

Seizing the opportunity, Xuanxuan brought over a wooden tray, on which was laid a brocade cloth, to assist Tongxi in removing her jewelry, preparing her for a lighter engagement

Immediately thereafter, most of the court ladies present knelt down

In the afternoon, Tongxi changed into a simple aquamarine thin dress, thinking that with so many noble ladies gathered, they would surely enjoy playing their favorite games.

Aunt, now that Consort Zhao has gained the Emperor's favor, I cannot directly confront her. Moreover, it is lonely at the top, and I fear she may not stand high enough. The Empress Dowager herself wants to fall into Mu Zhao Wen's trap; she should be grateful that I have not added to her troubles. Linghu Tongxi is not a kind person. Furthermore, she cannot allow the Emperor to favor Du Gu Yuan Feng too much, otherwise, she will never ascend to the throne of Empress. Someone like Du Gu Yuan Feng cannot tolerate anyone becoming the legitimate wife of the Heavenly Ruler.

Tong Xi was distracted by this, resulting in her being struck directly by a ball kicked by Du Gu Yuan Feng in anger, hitting her left eye. She fell to the ground, and everyone rushed over.

Dugu Yuanfeng took the ball and remarked, "This ball seems to be much lighter." She was somewhat surprised, as the size of the ball is fixed, and with the hair stuffed inside, its weight should be approximately the same.

How can the imperial concubine determine that the Princess of Jin will enter the top three?" The Emperor Tianzheng expressed some curiosity

This is her first time meeting the noble consort, having previously encountered other empresses and the Zhaofei during past festivals, she inwardly marvels at the beauty of the women of the imperial family

Studying the character and preferences of the emperor is the lifelong mission of these palace concubines

Tong Xi does not blame the silk, although the face of Emperor Tianzheng is handsome, very few dare to look directly at it

Before I entered the palace, I often enjoyed playing cuju at home. However, the ball was quite painful to kick, which led me to think of ways to make it lighter. Later, I happened to meet the daughter of a butcher who came to my house as a maid, and she suggested an idea: to use animal bladders, inflate them by blowing air into them, and use them as balls. These balls are light and soft, making them suitable for us girls to kick. I was also concerned about injuring Her Majesty the Empress Dowager, which is why I had someone fetch this ball for me. Tongxi is not someone who lacks charm.

Recalling her frail and weak husband, she looked at the tall and imposing Emperor Tianzheng, and for a moment, she felt a surge of jealousy. She believed she was not inferior to anyone, so why did she end up marrying such a husband

Tongxi and Dugu Yuanfeng each led a team. On ordinary days, those who were by the Empress Dowager's side would cheer for her, while those close to the Linghu clan would cheer for Tongxi. It appeared that both sides were equally matched in momentum. This was the warning that Dugu Yuanfeng and Tongxi gave to Mu Zhaowen. She was naturally aware that her family background could not be compared to that of the two before her

The Heavenly Sovereign turned his head and did not pursue the matter further. Undoubtedly, at today's Dragon Boat Festival banquet, Mu Zhaowen once again took the lead, not only suppressing the Empress Dowager's arrogance but also overshadowing much of the Concubine's grace.

It is true that human calculations are no match for the heavens' calculations. When Tong Xi was embraced by someone, she immediately regretted it. The scent of this person was one she wished to avoid at all costs. The white five-clawed golden dragon was thus imprinted before her eyes, and there was no way to escape it.

As Tong Xi just woke up from her nap, Qi Yun came to report, "The Empress has indeed guessed correctly; His Majesty has favored the Princess of Jin, and it is in the Chunwarm Pavilion of the Imperial Garden."

Ten taels, for the imperial concubine, is truly not a significant amount. Each year, along with the monthly salary, the total reaches over ten thousand taels. This ten taels is indeed as little as it can get

Tong Xi lowered her brows and answered with a downcast gaze

Tong Xi knelt down slowly and said, "I, your servant, was momentarily tempted by pleasure. I ask the Empress Dowager to impose punishment."

When Princess Su Minwen of Jin ascended the stairs by imperial decree, everyone was observing her. The red cloak had long been removed, a color that only the Empress could wear in the inner palace. She was dressed in a light green gauze palace gown, adorned with a golden three-phoenix hairpin, simple yet elegant. Despite such a simple attire, she did not appear inferior to anyone present. She possessed an innate air of heroism, and the brightness in her brows brought joy to those who beheld her. However, her graceful figure added a touch of delicate beauty, making her a complex embodiment of contradictions. Simple and elegant, yet her attire did not diminish her presence among those gathered. She naturally exuded a sense of heroism, and the clarity in her expression was heartwarming, while her slender form contributed an additional layer of fragile beauty, a harmonious blend of contrasts.

Jiang Deqi received the imperial decree from the Heavenly Governance Emperor, signaling the eunuch by the lakeside to strike the gongs and drums. Upon hearing the sound of the gongs, the dragon boats on Taiye Pool swiftly set out.

"Guifei, Zhaofei, you should know that one should not commit small evils, nor neglect small goods. Where have the sacred texts you have read gone?" Dugu Yuanfeng seized this opportunity to thoroughly reprimand the two of them in front of Emperor Tianzheng and the other palace concubines.

Certainly, there is a rivalry between Du Gu Yuan Feng and Tong Xi, as the imperial harem has never been a place for enduring humiliation in silence. When it is time for others to understand your status, you must make it clear, instilling fear in them so that they do not dare to act recklessly. Cuju, as a competitive sport, is most suitable for proclaiming one's stance. Although Tong Xi usually does not dare to overshadow Du Gu Yuan Feng, since it is a competition, she can take it seriously.

Historically, the imperial harem has never been a place of purity

Her eyes were dark, and it was pitiful that she couldn't even learn to conceal her infidelity. Back then, the members of her large family were experts in the art of cheating, and it was completely undetectable.

"Sister Zhao Fei, please come as well," Tong Xi asked with a smile

During the midday meal, Emperor Tianzheng went to the Qinguang Hall in the outer palace, where he hosted a banquet for the officials. Tongxi left the Crown Princess and other noblewomen to hold a banquet in the Jinming Hall.

The crowd once again paid their respects to Tongxi, and several noble ladies who had played with her since childhood stepped forward, saying, "Your Highness, the weather is just right today; why not play a game of cuju for a while?"

Until a quarter of an hour later, the appearance of the Princess of Jin. She made her entrance very discreetly, yet everyone, including Dugu Yuanfeng and Mu Zhaowen, was focused on her. She appeared bashful and timid, completely devoid of the heroic demeanor she had displayed earlier that morning, stealing a glance at Emperor Tianzheng before quietly blending into the crowd

"Your Majesty, I have not seen the Princess of Jin since the afternoon meal," Tongxi murmured to herself, as if Dugu Yuanfeng was unaware of the illicit affair between Emperor Tianzheng and the Princess of Jin.

After lunch, Tongxi returned to the Tonghui Palace to rest temporarily, while the other noble ladies either strolled in the Imperial Garden or visited the palaces of concubines with whom they had familial ties

The Empress Dowager naturally knew that she was the instigator, and she also knelt down, saying, "I, your servant, acknowledge my guilt. In a moment of playful spirit, I invited the sisters of the harem to guess the outcome of the dragon boat race, hoping to gain some good fortune."

The crowd was initially stunned by the spectacular scene, and silence enveloped the surroundings. As they saw her land gracefully, they were about to cheer, when they heard the eunuch announce, "The Emperor has arrived." Tongxi began to blush and, along with the others, knelt down to pay their respects.

Long live the Empress Dowager. Tong Xi respectfully performed a bow

That will do

After the Empress left, the Empress Dowager appointed the Princess of Jin to take your place, but the Princess of Jin repeatedly declined, stating that she was unwell